Wednesday 28 September 2011

Back in the saddle

Hubby and I had a day off work yesterday - and what a grand day it was. We had fantastic weather and so decided we would take our bikes to the Monsal trail again (I love a flat trail!). I have also bought a gel saddle cover, and some very weird, but strangely comforting padded knickers which helped with the pain of cycling!One of the main reasons for doing this trail was a planned visit to Hassop station.
Until recently, the station was home to a very large bargain bookshop with a small cafe. Now it is a very large cafe - with a small bargain bookshop.
The switch seemed to have paid off as it was fairly busy. The food was really gorgeous.

I love the way that they have kept quite a few of the old stations along the trail.

Another reason for visiting the trail, when asked where I want to go for a day out locally, Monsal Dale generally wins. The scenery is spectacular whatever the season.
I love the mixture of history and nature.
I hanker after a stay in these lovely riverside cottages.
and marvel every time at the general geography of this wonderful spot.

14 comments:

Cybèle said...

Just caught up on several posts on your blog. Nice to read you enjoy biking too! I love it and try to go for 30-40 miles at weekends. It's such a nice way to see your surroundings and get fit at the same time. It's amazing what you discover in your own surroundings.

Diane said...

Great photos as always. I hate the gel saddle covers but I guess it is a matter of choice! Padded shorts, yes I could not do without. Have a good day, t'other Diane

HippieGirl said...

Lovely pics. I just adore reading your blogs. You always put such lovely photos on the posts

Jo said...

You picked the perfect day for a day off work weather wise. I'm not surprised that you visit here often, the secenery is gorgeous and I love those riverside cottages too.

Rosie said...

Looks like a gorgeous day! I like what they've done to Hassop Station cafe and the food is really tasty but I think the choice of books has suffered slightly in the book shop part - I prefer the bookshop at Brierlow Bar closer to Buxton. I think the scenery along the Monsal trail is wonderful, I'm glad you can view it more comfortably now:)

Lyn said...

Lucky you to have a day off together and have good weather, can't stop thinking about the padded knickers though!!!
xxx

Lisa said...

A day out for the two of you, how fab. You picked a good cycle route, it's so pretty. The cafe sounds very inviting too!
Those knickers sound interesting!
Lisa xx

Louise said...

I love the mill buildings, but they are now pricey luxury apartments! I quite like the bookshop at Hassop Station, it usually has a few I want in, but you can't beat Brierlow Bar for discount books and I always spend too much money when I go in!

Kathy said...

It's a lovely part of the world ... so pretty. Now it's the thought of the gel seat and the padded knickers that puts me off cycling!!! Give me walking boots every time!
xxx

Young at Heart said...

the padded knickers sound hilarious......haven't been back on the Boris bike for a few days as am fighting the cough cold thing.....but that high vis jacket is on my shopping list!!

Lx @ Twelve said...

It looks a lovey trail to follow, and I'd heard Hassop Station was much improved, glad to read good feedback!

I have spent too many years washing padded cycling shorts, first G, & now the 10 year old....

But Gel seats are a must!

Lx

greenthumb said...

Looks like another good day out, i will have to look out for those padded knickers as I never get on my bike anymore.

Cathy at PotterJotter said...

It looks wonderful, and I am sure I have been there in the past, but must go again .... though I fear not on a bike!

Little Blue Mouse said...

It looks to have been a gorgeous day out!

I've just been reading your Sheffield posts; I wondered where the statues had gone at Meadowhall.